Vancouver is a city that takes its craft beer and nightlife seriously. With its thriving microbrew scene, eclectic neighborhoods, and stunning surroundings, it offers endless opportunities to explore local flavors and meet new people. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast eager for behind-the-scenes brewery tours or a social butterfly ready to dance your way through Gastown’s lively pubs, Vancouver has something to suit every taste. We love Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour for its VIP access and exclusive insights, and the Gastown Pub Crawl for its fun challenge elements and lively atmosphere. Whatever your style, these tours promise a memorable way to enjoy the city’s vibrant drinking culture.
Quick Overview
Vancouver’s drinking tours cover a wide range of experiences, from guided brewery visits and pub crawls to street art and craft beer walks. Some focus on local microbreweries like BREWHALL and Main Street Brewery, offering behind-the-scenes access (see more), while others combine art exploration with beer tastings (see details). For adventure lovers, heli-tours with backcountry beer tastings are available (check it out). Solo travelers, groups, or those looking for a local neighborhood crawl will find perfect options, whether it’s a 5-hour pub crawl in Gastown or a private craft beer tour (see private options). Below, we break down each experience in detail.
1. Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour delivers a comprehensive taste of the city’s craft beer scene. For around $93, you get about three hours of guided VIP access at three highly-rated breweries. What makes this tour stand out is the exclusive behind-the-scenes look, priority seating, and all transportation included, so you can focus on trying some of Vancouver’s best brews. With a perfect 5-star rating from 144 reviews, it’s clear this tour offers excellent value and memorable experiences. Plus, you’ll go home with a souvenir beer glass, making it a fun keepsake of your visit. This tour is ideal if you want to skip the lines and get in-depth knowledge of Vancouver’s craft beer culture. The small group setting also ensures personalized attention.
Bottom line: Top choice for craft beer lovers wanting insider access and a relaxed, social environment with convenient transport.
2. Gastown Pub Crawl
Number 2 is the Gastown Pub Crawl, a five-hour tour that’s perfect for those wanting to explore Vancouver’s historic nightlife district. For just under $26, you hit four bars, with cover charges included, and enjoy one free shot at each stop. The tour kicks off at The Portside Pub, then heads to venues like Funky Winker Beans and The Lamplighter, ending at the lively Pint Vancouver. It’s especially popular for its crowd-friendly vibe, with reviews highlighting the bingo-style icebreakers and large groups making it easy to meet people. The tour is great for solo travelers or groups who love a relaxed evening of bar hopping, all without waiting in lines.
Bottom line: Excellent for social travelers seeking a fun, hassle-free night out in Gastown’s bar scene.
3. Vancouver Street Art and Craft Beer 3 Hour Walking Tour
Number 3 combines two passions: street art and craft beer. The Vancouver Street Art and Craft Beer Walking Tour offers an immersive 3-hour experience exploring murals from the Vancouver Mural Festival, with stops at BREWHALL and Main Street Brewery. The tour is unique because it blends artistic discovery with beer sampling in trendy neighborhoods like Mount Pleasant and Olympic Village. Guides are knowledgeable about Vancouver’s public art scene and craft beer culture, providing stories behind the murals and brews. It’s ideal for those who want an active, cultural experience that’s both visual and flavorful. Guests rave about the personable guides and the rotating street art, making every tour different.
Bottom line: Perfect for art lovers and craft beer fans who want a daytime cultural adventure.
4. Vancouver: Craft Beer Tasting and Neighborhood Culture Crawl
Number 4 offers a three-hour guided crawl through the Brewery Creek neighborhood, a local hotspot for craft beer. For $53, you visit three beloved breweries, sampling up to 12 beers, and receive insights from an expert beer-savy guide (see more). This tour is well-suited for those wanting an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at Vancouver’s brewing culture while exploring a vibrant neighborhood. It’s a great way to taste a variety of seasonal and experimental beers without breaking the bank. The tour’s focus on local hotspots makes it especially appealing for travelers wanting authentic experiences.
Bottom line: Ideal for craft beer enthusiasts seeking to explore a lively Vancouver neighborhood with expert guidance.
5. Stawamus Chief Hike & Local Brewery Tasting
Position 5 combines outdoor activity with beer tasting. The Stawamus Chief Hike & Brewery Tasting is perfect for active travelers willing to tackle a moderate four-hour hike in Squamish. After conquering the impressive views from the peaks, you’ll be rewarded with a visit to a favorite local brewery for a well-deserved tasting. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, praising the knowledgeable guides and the scenic rewards. It’s great for those who love combining outdoor adventure with a cold beer afterward. Keep in mind, the hike is challenging, so good fitness and proper gear are a must.
Bottom line: Excellent for active travelers who want a scenic hike topped with local craft beer.
6. Vancouver: Street Art & Craft Beer Walking Tour with Tasting
Number 6 is a 3-hour walking tour through Mount Pleasant, showcasing Vancouver’s street art and local breweries. This tour encourages visitors to see colorful murals and meet local artists, with stops at The Beaumont Studios where you can sample craft beer. The guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling make this tour engaging, and the focus on local art and beer creates a memorable experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy combining visual culture with relaxed social drinking, and reviews mention how the art explanations add a meaningful layer to the walk.
Bottom line: Great for art lovers and craft beer enthusiasts seeking a creative, social daytime tour.
7. Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour & Landing
Number 7 offers a truly unique experience: a heli-tours with a remote backcountry beer tasting. For $382, the flight takes you over the Coast Mountains, with a scenic 30-minute ride, followed by a 30-minute landing in wilderness. Here, you’ll enjoy exclusive beer tastings in breathtaking surroundings. The reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the novelty of the experience. It’s perfect for adventure seekers willing to splurge for unforgettable views and a one-of-a-kind tasting. The tour’s exclusivity and remote location make it a memorable luxury experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking an adventurous splash of luxury and scenic beauty with craft beer.
And that’s just a sample of Vancouver’s diverse drinking tour offerings. Whether you want a laid-back pub crawl, an art-inspired walk, thrilling helicopter tastings, or a vigorous hike with a brewery reward, Vancouver has it all. For different travel styles, we recommend booking early, especially for specialty tours like helicopter or private experiences.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour
When selecting a Vancouver drinking tour, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. If you’re a craft beer fanatic wanting insider access, the Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour offers excellent value. For those who enjoy combining art and beer, the Street Art & Craft Beer Walking Tour is ideal. Adventure travelers should consider the Heli-Tours for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, while budget-conscious visitors can opt for the Gastown Pub Crawl. Booking early is a good idea, particularly for tours with limited spots or special features.
Vancouver’s drinking scene isn’t just about beer; it’s about discovering local culture, meeting new friends, and enjoying stunning scenery. From VIP brewery visits to lively pub crawls, the options are diverse and tailored to different tastes. If you’re looking for a relaxed beer tasting, the VIP Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour is highly recommended. For a fun night out, the Gastown Pub Crawl promises good times with new friends. And if you’re seeking an extraordinary adventure, consider the Backcountry Heli Beer Tasting. No matter your choice, Vancouver’s beer and nightlife are ready to impress—just don’t forget to book early!